Cancer is not a single disease with a single type of treatment. There are more than 200 different types of cancer, each with its own name and treatment. This section provides an overview of what cancer is.

Low income
scheme

Low Income Scheme means-tested

This means-tested scheme, available to people in England, Scotland and Wales, provides help to people who are not exempt from healthcare costs, but who may be entitled to full or partial help if they have a low income.

The scheme includes help with:

NHS prescriptions

NHS dental treatment

NHS wigs and fabric supports

sight tests, glasses and contact lenses

travel to receive NHS treatment.

To qualify, there’s a savings limit of £16,000, or £23,250 for those who live permanently in a care home.

How can I claim?

You can also get form HC1 from your local Jobcentre Plus or NHS hospital. You may be able to get one from your doctor, dentist or optician.

If you’ve already paid for your prescriptions, fares to hospital, dental treatment, eye treatment or a wig, you can claim a refund using form HC5 if you apply within three months. You must have the relevant receipt (such as form FP57 for prescriptions). For more information, see the Department of Health leaflet HC11 Help with health costs.

Latest from the Online Community

Get support

Featured group

Share experiences and advice on practical issues when living with cancer, such as money, work, benefits, travel insurance, transport, food and drink, organising support at home, or getting specialist equipment.